One of the reasons why prisoners get transferred is because of a change in their security category. They are usually categorised sometime after sentencing so that they can be allocated to an appropriate prison. For this purpose, armoured security vehicles are used and it is for good reasons. Armoured vehicles can protect the police while they do their job as well as its passengers who are en route to another correctional facility.
Other than being in roadworthy condition, the vehicle should get the right fit-out first. It should have features that allow it to resist ballistic threats from all angles, built-in run-flats as well as up-to-date brake and suspension systems that can support the weight of armour without compromising the vehicle’s performance. Not sure where to start? Read on to find out more!
Choose vehicles that come with “versatile” compartments
First and foremost, you will want to make sure that the vehicle comes with a good array of compartment configurations and sizes. Look out for compartments that come in 120-inch, 100-inch and 80-inch lengths with one or more compartment configurations. In addition, you will also want to increase your van’s functionality by selecting a spacious interior layout that offers sufficient space to transport your equipment as well. A good way to stretch your investment dollar is by cross-purposing your vehicle.
Make necessary arrangements for safe seating
While keeping officers safe comes with great pertinence, keeping your detainees safe during transport is of paramount importance as well. Hence, you will want to spend some time to evaluate your seating options in your transport. Here are some things to keep in mind:
• Skip seat pads as they can be easily damaged. This type of damage will only add to maintenance costs and permanently-mounted pads can become the ideal spot for hiding contraband items.
• Choose side-facing benches and include grab straps at each seat location. You will want to provide handcuffed detainees proper support during transport.
• Ensure that the bench seats come with rubberized, non-slip materials that help riders stay seated. Avoid rough non-slip material as they can cause scrapes and other minor injuries during transport.
• You can also install dividers inside the vehicle to ensure that the detainees remain in their own seats.
Go for full body armour
This is an important step you can’t afford to skip. For maximum protection, you will want your vehicle to withstand shots fired from a range of weapons such as handguns and even high-powered rifles that use armour piercing bullets. From windows to doors to the roof, you will want to use ballistic plates at strategic areas to increase safety.
The base or floor of the vehicle should also be able to withstand blasts from items such as grenades and improvised explosive devices. Armoured vehicles are not designed to allow you to fight back but rather escape from the radius of danger.
Get heavy duty slam locks
When it comes to moving prisoners, you should always opt for quick and simple solutions. For instance, slam locks are highly efficient add-ons when installed on transport doors – all you have to do is slam the door shut! When the door is closed, the locks automatically engaged. Keeping to schedules is vital to such scenarios and these locks are just what everyone needs to get he job done.
Ensure that your transport comes with an emergency exit
Emergency situations require you to remove your prisoners fast. You will want to ensure that the escape hatches can be opened with ease. Your emergency exit hatch should have things like gasket seals, perforated center section for monitoring prisoners and quick-release slide bolts.